A former airman from Scott Air Force Base, Michael E. McCay, has pleaded guilty in federal court to charges involving the sexual exploitation of minors and the distribution of child sexual abuse material.
McCay, 32, admitted guilt to two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor and one count of distributing child pornography. Law enforcement first searched his residence on Scott Air Force Base in February 2023 after receiving information related to child pornography activities. During this search, agents reviewed McCay’s cell phone and found over 4,000 known images and videos of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) along with more than 18,000 unidentified images.
Investigators also discovered communications between McCay and individuals he believed to be minors. He acknowledged that he requested sexually explicit images from these minors, sent them threatening messages, and distributed CSAM that he received.
U.S. Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft commented on the case: “Sex crimes against children are a profound betrayal of everything decent because they exploit the innocent, shatter trust, and inflict lasting harm. This former airman has deeply dishonored himself and the military he served. Our military institutions and servicemembers command the highest respect, and we are proud of our strong partnership with Scott Air Force Base. Together we remain committed to protecting our country and holding this offender fully accountable under the law.”
Special Agent Elijah Bell from the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations highlighted the impact such cases have: “The exploitation of children has a lasting and profound effect on everyone involved, from the victims to the investigators. Through the collaboration between our agents, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our international and local law enforcement partners, we were able to swiftly pursue justice.”
A second search warrant was executed in January 2024 for McCay’s new cell phone where agents again found thousands of CSAM files as well as further communications with minors.
Authorities identified at least two minor victims—a 12-year-old and an 11-year-old—whom McCay exploited using online platforms including Roblox, Kik, Snapchat, and Likee.
Convictions for sexual exploitation of a minor carry sentences ranging from 15 to 30 years in prison; distribution of child pornography carries penalties between five to twenty years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is set for April 7 at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis.
The investigation was led by the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations with prosecution by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ali Burns.
